In Montecito’s coveted Hedgerow neighborhood, gates, tall hedges and ivy-covered walls allow only a peek at the houses that lie beyond. It’s a tranquil Southern California community where privacy is built-in and people tend to put down roots.
As such, homes infrequently come on the market. A 1938 Spanish-style residence now listed at US $4.295 million was purchased directly from the builder in 1957 by the current owners, says listing agent Elise Kahn of Village Properties.
“The Hedgerow tends to have a smaller inventory,” she says. “Many occupants are original owners and have been there for decades—just like this family.”
Homes in the architecturally diverse area generally sell in the high $3 million to $8 million range. The lots are shaded and flat.
“We are seeing about 50% of sales have multiple offers,” Kahn says. “Many offers are all cash.”
No family could own a home for more than 65 years and not leave something of themselves behind.
The father was an astronomer and installed the telescope off of the living room. Additionally, he had an observatory behind the garage, Kahn says. “The neighboring children would come over to see the stars.”
The mother, an artist and painter, left her touches throughout the home, including on the kitchen cabinetry, bathroom tile and on the glass panes of the French doors that lead to the backyard.
The single-story home with a detached workshop and one-bedroom, one-bathroom guest quarters (a later addition) sit on about a third of an acre with rose bushes, magnolias and two century-old oak trees.
Original details such as the black iron doors and wood flooring give the more than 2,400 square feet of living space an old-world charm. French doors open off a brick floor sunroom to the lawn. The dining room opens to a patio.
The updated kitchen blends white and black cabinets with stainless-steel appliances and granite countertops. The main house has three bedrooms and three bathrooms.
The front yard is an expanse of flagstone that has been used as an outdoor dining and lounging area. Orange, lemon and lime trees fill the backyard.
Kahn and Ruth Ann Bowe, both with Village Properties, are the listing agents for 1530 Miramar Lane in Santa Barbara. Shopping, dining, beaches and highly rated schools are all nearby.